Sheldon Tate, Ed.D.

Office: RAC 1112

Phone: (703) 993-5819

Tate is an accomplished campus recreation leader with a considerable amount of experience. He is an active participant in NIRSA (the governing body of campus recreation), where he is focused on promoting student success and creating inclusive environments across the nation. He brings a diverse set of skills and experiences in the field of recreation, student affairs, higher education, executive coaching, and research. His vast expertise in culture building, strategic planning, relationship building, and project management have been valuable in creating and implementing effective programs and initiatives. He has managed recreation personnel at all levels and in fast paced environments. Known best for his passion, personality, and ability to foster intrinsic motivation, Tate is driven by the desire to impact the lives of others just as his was at the beginning of his journey.

He received a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of North Texas, a Master’s degree in Leisure Services Management from Oklahoma State University, and a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from Texas Christian University. When not working to promote high-quality recreation programs, he invests in as many people and organizations as he can through public speaking and learning sessions. Tate is a happily retired NCAA Division 1 basketball official from multiple conferences, and is still known to offer education to the next generation of referees whenever he is asked. He enjoys reading, traveling, cooking, and most importantly, trying to keep up with his wife Devin and their four kids.

My advice to students: Focus on what you want to do, not what you want to be. When done in that order, I have found that fulfilment and meaning are centered in the path chosen… and the be part of life tends to snap in place.